Evidence supporting the use of: Phytoestrogen (unspecified)
For the body system: Estrogen
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring plant compounds that structurally and functionally resemble endogenous estrogens, particularly estradiol. They are found in significant quantities in foods such as soybeans (isoflavones), flaxseeds (lignans), and red clover. The use of phytoestrogens to support the estrogen body system, particularly for alleviating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and maintaining bone density, has been the subject of scientific investigation. Clinical trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that certain phytoestrogens, especially soy isoflavones, can have mild estrogenic effects in the human body. These compounds act as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), binding to estrogen receptors and exerting weak estrogen-like effects. Evidence suggests modest efficacy in reducing the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes, although results are variable and some studies report no significant benefit. There is also limited evidence for beneficial effects on bone health and cardiovascular risk markers, but long-term safety data are still being evaluated. While traditional medicine systems, such as those in East Asia, have long used soy products for women’s health, the current justification for phytoestrogen use is primarily based on scientific research rather than tradition alone. However, due to inconsistencies in study outcomes and potential variability in individual metabolism, the evidence is rated as moderate rather than strong.
Other ingredients that support Estrogen
7-hydroxymatairesinol (HMR)black cohosh
chaste tree
d-glucarate
daidzin
dandelion
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
DIM (diindolylmethane)
dong quai root
fennel
flaxseed
genistein
genistin
ginseng
HMR lignan
hops
indole-3-carbinol
licorice root
lignans
maca
sage
secoisolariciresinol diglucoside
soybean
spearmint leaf
vitamin B6
vitamin E
wild yam
red clover
anise
yarrow
dioscorea
Equol (proprietary)
soy isoflavones
27-deoxyactein
4-Hydroxyandrostenedione
8-Prenylnaringenin
Agnuside
Anti-aromatase
Brassica
Bugbane
biochanin
Barbasco
Cohosh
Clary sage
Cruciferous
Casticin
Coumesterol
DHEA
Daidzein
Dong Quai
Diosgenin
Isoflavones
Soy Protein
Other body systems supported by Phytoestrogen (unspecified)
BreastsEstrogen
Female Reproductive System
Glandular System
Heart
Ovaries
Prostate
Reproductive System
Skeletal System (Bones)
Skin
Uterus
Vagina